Marrakech has once again proven itself as a heavyweight in the culinary world, securing a top spot among the leading open-air dining destinations across the Middle East and North Africa. According to a recent ranking released by IQOS, a brand under Philip Morris International, the city has claimed second place, trailing only behind Aqaba, Jordan.
The report highlights that more than a third of Marrakech’s restaurants offer outdoor seating—specifically, 34.22% of eateries are equipped with terraces. This strong showing is largely attributed to the city’s exceptionally mild climate. With an average annual temperature of 18°C (64°F), Marrakech offers year-round conditions that are ideal for dining al fresco.
Agadir also makes an appearance in the top tier of the list, landing in sixth place. Known for its relaxed coastal vibe, the city benefits from a temperate climate and an abundance of seaside terraces that attract both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a meal against a scenic backdrop.
The ranking brings Morocco into a broader spotlight, placing it alongside several other standout cities in the region such as Madaba and Aqaba in Jordan, Byblos in Lebanon, Kairouan in Tunisia, and Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates.
The study drew on data from thousands of restaurants across major urban centers in the MENA region. Key factors influencing the final list included the proportion of restaurants with terraces, overall climate conditions, the number of outdoor dining options relative to population size, and the general quality of the open-air dining experience.
